JVC KD-R741BT Single DIN CD Tuner with USB, Aux in & Bluetooth

A category of review that is really about the heritage and branding, because the unit has been superseded. It got a bit buried but I still wanted to have a go on it rather than send it home untested. The very latest iteration of this level of device has only just this minute come out and is the 861 model. Nowadays, this is a nominal £120 head unit and represents stonking VFM when compared to even specialist Bluetooth kit from other makers.
A Talk Audio Recommended Product.

And here is my video test and review.

SCORESOverall 8.6
Sound Quality 8
Appearance/Display 9
Ease Of Use/HMI 7
Features 9
Value For Money 10
SPECIFICATIONS
MOS-FET 50W x 4
24-bit DAC
Bluetooth(R) Wireless Technology*1 (Built-in) Phone Book Access Profile, Phone Book Transfer, Hands-Free Call, Audio Streaming, AVRCP, Text Message/SMS (Short Message Service) Receipt Notification, Voice Recognition Dialling, Compatibility Check Mode, Simple Secure Pairing, 2 Phones Full-Time Connection, Internet Radio Control for Smartphone
2 Phones Full-Time Connection
Application Control for Smartphone (JVC-App)
JVC Smart Music Control for Android (App via Bluetooth (R) & USB)
JVC Music Control for Android (App via USB)
JVC Playlist Creator for USB Memory/Thumb Drive (Windows (R) PC software via USB)
USB Audio for iPod/iPhone etc.
2-Way Control for iPod/iPhone*2 (Head Unit/iPod or iPhone)
External Mode for iPod/iPhone
Front USB Port (MP3/WMA/iPod & iPhone Audio)
USB 1A Power Supply
AUX Input (Front)
MP3/WMA Compatible with ID3/WMA Tag (CD/USB)
Radio Data System
HS-IVi Tuner
Radio Timer
Backup Memory
3-Band Parametric iEQ
Easy EQ
Source Link EQ
Loudness Control
Low-Pass Filter
2.5V Line and Subwoofer Pre-Out Level
Pre-Out Terminals (Rear/Subwoofer Selectable)
Subwoofer Control
Separated Brightness Control
Auto Dimmer
Beep Tone Support
Steering Remote Control Ready
Detachable Face Panel
*1 Available functions depend on mobile phone.
*2 Compatibility with 2-way control for iPod/iPhone differs by mode

Product Details
Manufacturer: JVC
Web Link to the KD-R861BTE model: link
Typical Selling price: £119.00